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We know that the ‘best’ or ‘favourite’ skincare products come from a place of subjectivity. It’s quite often dependent on your skin type and skin concerns. Some things work for one and not the other. And to narrow it down to five is just about impossible. But in this post, we’re going to round up five skincare products that make it into the top tier section and that we personally love. And with many international and local brands readily available in South Africa, we are spoiled for choice. Many of these products are available online and in-store for your convenience.
1. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil undoubtedly produces some of the best skincare products in South Africa. It is a skincare brand to which many South Africans are accustomed. Dermatologists highly recommend this brand, and it is especially known for its gentle and effective products that cater to a variety of skin types. With Cetaphil, you can ensure that you’re saying goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to healthy, glowing skin.
You should aim to cleanse your face at least once a day. Cleansing your face gets rid of any buildup of dirt and excess oils that your skin may have accumulated throughout the day. Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser is an absolute game-changer when it comes to face cleansers.
It’s especially perfect for sensitive skin, as it removes makeup, dirt, and excess oils without stripping your skin of its natural oils. This cleanser also leaves your face feeling hydrated when you’re done washing it, instead of tight and dry.
It is also non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced, making it safe to use on all skin types.
2. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + Vitamin B5
We’ve spoken about this amazing brand before in one of our other blog posts. The Ordinary has taken the skincare world by storm with their carefully formulated, effective skincare products. Not only does this brand offer you an affordable option, but they also offer you high-quality active ingredients that target specific skin concerns and keep your skin loving you.
If you’re looking for a product that can offer your skin the ultimate hydration, then look no further than The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + Vitamin B5 Serum. This product is a serious cult favourite, and for good reason. It delivers hydration without any greasiness or heavy feeling on the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful active ingredient that is able to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, thus making it the go-to product for anyone looking to boost their skin’s hydration levels. The added vitamin B5 helps soothe and repair any damaged skin. This is a must-try, and then a must-have too! Give your skin the hydration it deserves.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2 % + Vitamin B5 – 60ml
3. The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream
If you’re all about ethical beauty, The Body Shop is where it’s at. The Body Shop has been a leader in the cruelty-free and eco-friendly movement for over 40 years. They are committed to sourcing only natural and sustainable ingredients.
The Body Shop is well-known for their iconic body butters and tea-tree oil skincare line, and they cater to every skin type and concern. So, if you love indulging in guilt-free self-care, The Body Shop is quite literally what you’ve been waiting for.
The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream offers your skin the perfect balance of nourishment and hydration. It is a lightweight moisturiser that is packed with Vitamin E and antioxidants. Both of these work together to protect our skin from environmental stressors, and further promote glowing and healthy skin. Moisturising is super important, even if it’s the only step that you take.
It maintains your skin’s moisture barrier and reduces skin problems such as extreme dryness or oiliness. The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream has a luxurious feel to it, and it absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated all day long!
4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50
If you’re into French beauty brands, you’ve definitely come across La Roche-Posay. And when looking for the best skincare products in South Africa, you definitely shouldn’t look past this amazing skincare brand. This brand has been trusted and recommended by dermatologists for over 40 years. They focus on formulating effective and gentle skincare products that are suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay made sure to cater to your every skin concern. With a focus and commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, you can buy it and feel good knowing that by doing so, you have made a positive impact on our environment.
Sunscreen is extremely important and should be part of any and all skincare routines. By using a good sunscreen, you will be able to protect your skin’s appearance, prevent sunburn, and prevent premature ageing. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50 is lightweight and non-greasy, which is perfect if you hate the heavy, oily feeling that comes along with some sunscreens.
Because of its lightweight texture, it absorbs quickly, leaving behind absolutely no white cast. It also provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring that your skin stays protected from the sun at all times. Furthermore, it is perfect for all skin types, so you can now enjoy the sunshine without worrying about your skin getting damaged. La Roche-Posay has you covered, literally.
5. The Axis-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel
Lastly, we have an exfoliator.
Chemical exfoliators have grown in popularity in recent years. They formulate these exfoliators using acids and other active ingredients that work at dissolving dead skin cells.
You know how much we love Korean skincare. Its gentle and natural approach to skincare is what got us hooked. And let’s not forget its effective, transformative formulations. Axis-Y is a Korean skincare brand that takes a science-based approach.
They work at creating products that are formulated to work with your skin’s natural pH levels and its barrier function. Their main focus is on using natural ingredients, so you can treat your skin to your heart’s desire knowing that there aren’t harsh chemicals that could potentially damage it.
The Axis-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel might just be the product for you. This K-Beauty hidden gem is formulated using polyhydroxy acids (PHA’s). PHA is a type of exfoliating acid that is less irritating on the skin than AHA’s or BHA’s.
It gently dissolves dead skin cells and other impurities, leaving your complexion looking brighter and smoother. It also contains centella asiatica and niacinamide, which further work at hydrating and soothing your skin. So, if you want to achieve that smooth, radiant look without any of the harsh chemicals, then this is perfect for you.
Remember, it is best if you use chemical exfoliators at night and incorporate a good daily sunscreen to protect your skin and its barrier.
Axis-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel
Key Takeaway
South Africa offers us the ultimate skincare essentials. This collection features top-tier products and brands that can boost your skincare routine. Discover some of the best skincare products in South Africa to reveal a radiant, revitalised you.
Have you tried any of these products? What do you think should be added to the list? Tell us in the comments below.
